A good vitamin C serum is one of the most essential products in your skincare regimen. But, for all the care it gives your skin, you also need to care for your serum as well. Vitamin C is a highly vulnerable compound when it is exposed to the elements, which can cause it to break down and become less effective. One of the most common problems that occur with vitamin C is oxidation. Here, we detail how you can prevent vitamin C serum from oxidizing so you can get the most out of this incredible product.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble, carbohydrate-like substance that plays many roles in the human body. Also known as ascorbic acid, vitamin C is a compound that we must get outside of our bodies. That means we must eat it or, if we want skin benefits, we must apply it directly to the skin.

One of its most important roles is synthesizing collagen, which is a protein that helps form the connective tissue in our bodies. It also is essential for:

• Wound healing
• Stimulating the immune system
• Potentially suppressing cancer cell growth, and
• Combating free radicals with its antioxidant properties

Oxidation is a chemical process where a molecule loses an electron. We refer to the oxidation of a compound when it has combined with oxygen. When certain molecules combine with oxygen, it changes their chemical make-up.

Vitamin C is one such molecule that becomes oxidized when it is exposed to air, light, or humidity. Once it becomes oxidized, it turns into dehydroascorbic acid. When it is used in skincare products, its effectiveness significantly decreases unless it is stored just right.

Interestingly, it is also difficult to maintain in foods unless they are carefully stored and kept out of sunlight.

Vitamin C serums have an exceptionally short shelf life unless you take specific measures to keep them as stable as possible. Perhaps the first thing you will notice about your vitamin C serum is that it should be stored in packaging that does not allow light in and is air-tight. If your serum is in a vial or packaging that allows light in, it will not be very effective.

The most likely place you will use your serum is in the bathroom. However, this is not a good place to store your vitamin C serum, as it is exposed to frequent temperature and humidity fluctuations, as well as light.

The refrigerator is the best place to store your vitamin C serum to prevent oxidation. You want a cool, dark place where the temperature is consistent. You will also want to make sure your serum is closed tightly to prevent oxygen from entering the bottle. While it may seem like extra legwork to keep your vitamin C serum in the refrigerator, it is usually worth the trek in between your cleanser and moisturizer, as the cooling effects of the serum feel incredible on your skin.

Knowing if your vitamin C serum becomes oxidized is not too complicated. Usually, the serum will turn yellow or brown. If this happens, you will want to avoid using it and purchase a new one.

If your serum becomes oxidized, there are a few things you should know. Firstly, vitamin C serum is less effective once it becomes oxidized. Thus, you will not get the benefits you hope for with its use.

Secondly, oxidized vitamin C serum may discolor your skin in rare cases. In certain people, their skin may take on a yellow hue, which may last for some time. Generally, if you notice your serum has changed colors, it is best to avoid it, especially if it becomes brown.

Vitamin C serum is a powerful antioxidant that can help fight harmful toxins and UV rays on your face. It is also very beneficial in rebuilding collagen and elastin proteins, which help firm up the skin and reduce fine and coarse lines. Along with visibly reducing signs of aging, it also reduces the appearance of dark spots, brightens the skin, and protects against oxidative stress.

To use the highest concentration of vitamin C in a facial serum, try the Pure Vitamin C 35% Perfecting + Brightening serum from DS Laboratories. Enclosed in a light-blocking container with a pump to prohibit air intake, you won’t have to worry about keeping your vitamin c serum from oxidizing. This serum contains all the key ingredients you need to have radiant, healthy skin.